Following intense criticism from farmers on proposed changes to the nutrients action programme (NAP) in Northern Ireland (NI), a new way forward has been set out by Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir.

Those NAP proposals were outlined in a consultation released at the start of May and included new limits for phosphorus (P) targeted specifically at around 3,500 intensive farms.

These farms face the prospect of having to significantly downsize to keep within the new rules.

The consultation is open for comments until midnight on 24 July 2025. However, once that process is complete, a “timebound stakeholder task and finish group” will be established.

It will have an external facilitator and representatives from farming, agri food, environmental groups and the department, confirmed Minister Muir.

Responses

The group will take into account responses to the NAP consultation, as well as any other solutions, and propose measures and actions that are based on evidence, are workable on farms within realistic timeframes and meet the requirements of the law.

An economic impact assessment will also be done on these revised proposals, with both the new proposals and the economic assessment subjected to a further eight-week public consultation.

Once this process is complete, final decisions will be put to the Executive at Stormont for agreement.

“I have repeatedly said I will work with everyone as part of the current NAP review and that no final decisions have been taken,” said Minister Muir.